OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - Free agent Desmond Mason won't be returning to the Oklahoma City Thunder next season.

Mason's agent, Roger Montgomery, confirmed to The Associated Press on Wednesday that talks between the nine-year NBA veteran and the Thunder had broken down and the two sides wouldn't be agreeing on a new contract.

Mason had expressed his desire to return to Oklahoma City after a knee injury forced him to miss the second half of last season. Montgomery says the two sides weren't able to agree on a role for Mason, who still wants to make significant contributions instead of simply being a mentor for younger players.

General manager Sam Presti called it a "difficult decision," but said the Thunder wanted to allow Mason to pursue other opportunities.